IPL 2026: Sri Lanka Cricket clears Eshan Malinga, uncertainty over Hasaranga, Pathirana & Thushara

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has cleared Eshan Malinga to participate in the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026. However, there is no immediate update on Nuwan Thushara, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Matheesha Pathirana, who are still awaiting clearance from the board ahead of the tournament, which begins on March 28.

According to Cricbuzz, Malinga is set to report to the Sunrisers Hyderabad camp on Tuesday, March 24. The right-arm pacer will arrive in Hyderabad alongside fellow Sri Lankan Kamindu Mendis, who has already been granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC).

It is understood that Hasaranga and Pathirana were unable to attend fitness tests on Monday, which is likely to delay their arrival in India for IPL 2026. Pathirana, who was signed by the Kolkata Knight Riders for INR 18 crore, is expected to miss part of the season, with the franchise willing to wait for his full recovery rather than seek a replacement.

Meanwhile, the Lucknow Super Giants have not received any update regarding Hasaranga, and there is no immediate clarity on Thushara, who is part of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru squad.

The NOC status of Hasaranga remains unclear as of Monday, March 23. However, fellow Sri Lankan players Dushmantha Chameera and Pathum Nissanka, along with recent Rajasthan Royals recruit Dasun Shanaka, have received clearance to participate in the Indian Premier League 2026.

“Nuwan Thushara’s eligibility for a No Objection Certificate to participate in the IPL will be subject to the outcome of his physical performance test,” the statement read as quoted by Cricbuzz.

Meanwhile, officials from Sunrisers Hyderabad have confirmed that regular captain Pat Cummins will arrive in Bengaluru on Tuesday, March 24, by which time the rest of the squad is expected to have assembled. SRH are set to face defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the tournament opener at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on March 28.

The franchise has also confirmed that stand-in skipper Ishan Kishan will attend the captains’ meeting in Mumbai on March 25. Captains from all 10 teams are scheduled for a six-hour engagement with IPL officials and broadcasters, beginning with a photo session at noon and concluding with a meeting with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) from 4:30 pm to 6 pm.

Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.